Cafe Citta
Authentic Italian wood-fired pizza and handmade pasta in an intimate Cardiff gem.
Tucked away on Church Street in Cardiff's city centre, Cafe Citta is a compact Italian restaurant celebrated for its authentic wood-fired pizzas and handmade pasta. This intimate, bijou venue seats just a handful of diners in a cosy, elegantly decorated space where you can watch the chef work in the open kitchen. With a 4.8-star rating and recognition in prestigious guides, it delivers exceptional Italian cuisine in a setting that rewards those who book ahead.
A brief summary to Cafe Citta
- 4 Church St, Cardiff, CF10 1BG, GB
- +442920224040
- Visit website
- Duration: 1.5 to 2.5 hours
- Mid ranged
-
Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Tuesday 12 pm-11 pm
- Wednesday 12 pm-11 pm
- Thursday 12 pm-11 pm
- Friday 12 pm-11 pm
- Saturday 12 pm-11 pm
Local tips
- Always book ahead by phone—this restaurant fills quickly and walk-ins rarely find tables. Call 029 2022 4040 to reserve.
- The space is genuinely small and intimate; if you prefer spacious dining or are claustrophobic, this may not suit you. Embrace the cosy atmosphere and proximity to other diners.
- Plan for a two-hour seating slot. If you need longer, mention this when booking so staff can arrange a later time slot after the main service rush.
- The pizzas are generous and filling; consider sharing or skipping dessert if you want to avoid over-eating at lunch.
- Closed Sundays and Mondays. Open Tuesday to Saturday, noon to 11 PM. Plan your visit accordingly.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
Cafe Citta location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
Discover more about Cafe Citta
A Jewel Box of Italian Authenticity
Cafe Citta occupies a deliberately small footprint on Church Street, just a short walk from Cardiff Central Station. The restaurant's compact dimensions—often described as bijou and intimate—are entirely intentional, creating an atmosphere where diners sit close enough to observe the chef's craft in the open kitchen and to engage with fellow guests. The space is discreetly elegant, with quirky decor including framed paintings on the ceiling, and a warm, welcoming ambiance that makes even first-time visitors feel at home. This is not a sprawling food factory but rather a carefully curated neighbourhood gem where quality trumps quantity.Mastery of Wood-Fired Pizza and Fresh Pasta
The kitchen produces everything from scratch, with particular mastery in two areas: wood-fired pizzas made from fresh dough and cooked in a traditional oven, and handmade pasta dishes that showcase authentic Italian technique. The menu rotates with specials, offering diners both familiar classics and seasonal creations. Portions are generous, particularly for pizzas, and prices reflect the quality of ingredients and labour involved. Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options are available, ensuring inclusivity without compromising on flavour. The wine and beer selection complements the food thoughtfully, and the espresso and coffee service meets the high standards expected throughout the meal.A Dining Experience Built on Respect and Reservation
Cafe Citta operates on a table-slot system, typically offering two-hour seatings to ensure fair access for all guests. The restaurant is consistently busy, and booking ahead is not merely recommended but essential—walk-ins may find no availability. The staff are notably friendly and attentive, and the owner takes pride in the establishment's reputation. Service does not include an automatic gratuity, allowing diners to reward exceptional care at their discretion. The restaurant closes on Sundays and Mondays, operating Tuesday through Saturday from noon to 11 PM, giving it a rhythm that respects both staff wellbeing and the craft of cooking.Recognition and Reputation
Cafe Citta has earned accolades from respected sources, including features in The Sunday Times and Phaidon's "Where to Eat Pizza," and holds a Travellers' Choice award. Its 4.8-star rating reflects consistent excellence across food quality, service, and the overall dining experience. The restaurant's small size and focused menu mean that every dish receives proper attention, and the kitchen's refusal to compromise on standards has built a loyal following among Cardiff's food-conscious residents and visitors.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Historical Wales
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Cardiff Town Wall
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Fogo's Free Tours
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John Batchelor Statue
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South African War Memorial
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Cardiff Central Train Station Water Tower
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City Hall
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Capitol Cardiff
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Unmissable attractions to see
The Cardiff Market
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Cardiff Market
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St John The Baptist City Parish Church
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Blue Bell
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Castle Quarter Arcades
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Aneurin Bevan Statue by Robert Thomas (1987)
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Museum of Cardiff
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Firing Line Cardiff Castle Museum of the Welsh Soldier
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Cardiff Castle, Cardiff Castle
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St David's Hall
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Morgan Arcade
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Cardiff Castle
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Cardiff Antique Centre
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Essential places to dine
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Cozy Italian eatery in Cardiff city center serving authentic wood-fired pizzas and pasta in an intimate, stylish setting.
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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Knight Vintage
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Hobos Vintage
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Great Welsh Gifts
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Little Welsh Company
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Castle Welsh Crafts Ltd
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The Works
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Cardiff Creative Shop
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Rokit Cardiff
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Romantic
- Casual
- Unique
- Quirky
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Bohemian Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Art & Design
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
